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Debt Counsellor Profile

Debtfree Magazine got to talk to Debt Counsellor Shadi Makgopa about becoming and practising as a NCR Registered Debt Counsellor.

How long have you been a Debt Counsellor (DC)?

I registered as a DC in 2021 but actively started practising as a DC in 2023.

What did you do before becoming a DC?

Prior to working as a Debt Counsellor, I spent four years as a Financial Wellness Educator. I then transitioned into a Debt Counselling collections consultant role for five months, then got an opportunity to be appointed as a Junior Debt Counsellor in 2023. I currently serve as a Debt Counselling Administration Manager at Debt Freeze.

Why did you become a DC?

My passion for financial wellness developed during my time as a consultant assisting clients with debt counselling applications. This experience sparked a deeper curiosity to understand the full debt counselling process. I love to help consumers.

What do you like most about being a DC?

Helping consumers find financial relief and understand that over-indebtedness is not permanent and that there is a way out of the “borrow from Peter to pay Paul” cycle

What makes your business a success?

Our team has a great work ethic, and there is a genuine willingness among my colleagues to learn and develop beyond their specific areas of expertise.

Where do you find new clients?

We work with clients who reach out via our website and social media channels, as well as through referrals.

What is the biggest challenge facing Debt Counsellors at the moment?

One of the main challenges is managing situations where our client’s default on payments or struggle to maintain their agreed debit order commitments. That’s emotionally hard.

What is the biggest challenge facing your consumers at the moment?

Financial stability. In some cases, clients still find themselves financially stressed despite the amazing relief achieved. They really need to manage their situation very well in such cases.

What do you do to help consumers make a success of their debt review?

We encourage consumers not to wait for us to initiate communication. At any stage, they are welcome to reach out for updates or clarity on their matters.

We take time to explain the cascading of the debt counselling process so that consumers fully understand each stage and do not view it as a life sentence.

We provide clear guidance on the clearance process and highlight why the legal process is a vital when it comes to the success of the debt counselling application.

What advice do you have for consumers with debt stress ?

Debt stress can feel overwhelming, but it’s important to remember that it’s not the end of the world. Many people find themselves in this position after making unplanned or uncalculated financial decisions and you’re not alone.

The most important step is recognising that you need help and being willing to ask for it. That decision alone puts you on the right path.

There are no shortcuts to resolving debt challenges. It requires a mindset shift, patience, and persistence. Be open to learning, trust qualified professionals, and allow yourself to be guided through the process. With the right support and commitment, it is possible to regain control of your finances and move forward with confidence.

What advice do you have for consumers already under debt review?

A few things…

    • Stay actively involved in the process.
    • Don’t wait for your debt counsellor to contact you, if you need updates, clarity, or reassurance, reach out at any time.
    • Where possible, try to prioritise advance or additional payments. Even small extra contributions can reduce the overall repayment period and help you complete the process sooner.
    • Clients should at all times keep the end goal in mind — Financial Freedom. With commitment, transparency, and guidance, debt review is a pathway forward, not something that defines you.